Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Retired, John A. Summers, 80, Peru, went to be with the Lord Saturday, Aug. 11, 2007, surrounded by his loving wife, children and grandchildren.

His illustrious military career spanned 28 years, starting with the U.S. Marine Corps in 1944, and ending with the U.S. Army, 3rd Infantry Division in 1972. He was a young machine gunner with the First Marine Division during the invasion of Okinawa in 1945, fought with the U.S. Army 8th Ranger Company during the Korean War, and the 173d Airborne Brigade in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. John also served with the U.S. Army's 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions. He was honored with 12 military decorations including three Purple Hearts and three Bronze Stars. He received an additional 24 military awards, including the Ranger and Raider Tabs, and Master Jump Wings.

In 1972 after retiring from the Army, he moved to Peru.

John's memberships included being a 32nd degree Mason (Peru Lodge); the American Legion and 40/8; the China Marine Association, the 173 ABN Associations, the 8th Army Ranger Company Association, and the Order of the Purple Heart Association. CSM Summers was also a life member of the Command Sergeant Major's Association and the Disabled American Veterans Association.

He enjoyed traveling with his wife, attending reunions with his brothers-in-arms and visiting with friends and relatives.

Survivors include his wife of 50 years, Gisela Helene Summers; sons John R. Summers and wife Lynette, and their daughters Sarah and Shena of Las Cruces, New Mexico, Jim Summers and wife Lori, and their sons Christopher and Cody of Peru; daughters Ginny Summers and her daughters, Erin and Kylee of Peru, Patricia Williams and her children Ezekiel, Jessica, Dean and Anna of Peru; and five great-grandchildren.

A private memorial service for the family is scheduled for Wednesday. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va.

In lieu of flowers a donation can be made to the Disabled American Veterans Association by contacting Jay Kendall at (765) 472-3901, ext. 271.

Dad, Miss you greatly. Another Memorial day passes now without your strong presence.You were the best father a son could have asked GOD for.We all Miss you so much.I have told so many about your life since you went with the lord in 2007.You were one the t...(Read more)-
Jim,Lori,Chris, Cody and MomAdded: May. 27, 2013